BJP's Karnataka Conundrum: Vijayendra's Fate Hangs in Balance
The Bharatiya Janata Party's central leadership is facing a critical decision regarding the future of BY Vijayendra as president of the Karnataka unit, with internal debates intensifying following the conclusion of assembly elections in Bihar.
Sources within the party reveal that the high command is engaged in a delicate balancing act as loyalists become increasingly vocal against Vijayendra's continuance, while caste considerations—particularly the demand for Lingayat representation—continue to shape the discussions.
The Case for Continuation
Vijayendra, who completed two years in office on Saturday, remains confident about retaining his position and has been actively highlighting his track record. His tenure has included leading significant campaigns against the Congress government, such as the Janakrosha Yatre addressing price rise issues and the Mysuru Chalo protest focusing on the alleged Muda scam.
"I have received a firm answer. With that clarity, I am working as state president," Vijayendra stated, indicating his belief in continued support from the party leadership.
Supporters of Vijayendra argue that the current political atmosphere favors him, pointing to recent symbolic gestures like Chikkaballapur MP K Sudhakar—previously a critic—meeting Vijayendra on his birthday last week and expressing solidarity.
Growing Dissent and Alternative Candidates
Despite Vijayendra's confidence, his detractors within the party continue to push for a replacement, insisting that Karnataka needs someone with broader acceptability and greater experience at the helm. Critics argue that Vijayendra has been unable to shed what they describe as "a lingering negative image" and has failed to emerge as a consensus leader.
Former minister Aravind Limbavali, one of the prominent dissidents, emphasized the urgency of the situation: "The presidency issue has been unaddressed for more than a year. The time is now right for the high command to look into it."
Those advocating for stronger state leadership have proposed senior leaders such as Union minister V Somanna. Although age is a concern—Somanna is 70—his supporters contend that his electoral experience and performance at the national level outweigh these reservations. Somanna is believed to have impressed top BJP functionaries with his tenure in the railways and jal shakti ministries.
"I have proved that age is not a factor. As for the state president post, it is up to the high command to take a call. I will not shy away from taking responsibility," Somanna stated.
Broader Organizational Implications
The resolution of Karnataka's leadership question is closely linked to the broader process of electing BJP's national president, given that JP Nadda's three-year term—extended to June 2024 due to Lok Sabha polls—has long expired. While 28 states have received new presidents, Karnataka remains among the few still awaiting a decision, alongside Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
The choice of Karnataka BJP president assumes particular significance as the central leadership seeks to replicate the Bihar model ahead of the 2028 assembly elections. With plans to consolidate the NDA alongside alliance partner JD(S), the BJP is expected to select someone capable of ensuring smooth coordination between the parties' cadres.
JD(S) state president and Union minister HD Kumaraswamy expressed confidence in the alliance, noting: "Karnataka unit of BJP and JD(S) have forged a united front, and we are confident of emulating the Bihar victory in Karnataka. There may be minor hiccups within BJP organisation, but the high command is very strong and it will iron them out."
As the BJP high command deliberates on this crucial decision, the outcome will not only determine the party's leadership structure in Karnataka but also signal its strategic approach for the upcoming electoral battles in the southern state.
